Upon reopening, Disney World implemented a policy that requires face masks for all Cast Members and guests age two and older.
Guests are only permitted to remove their masks while visiting one of the designated relaxation zones, or while eating or drinking in a stationary, distanced location.
As reported by The Orlando Sentinel, a Disney World guest struck an EPCOT security guard when he was reminded to abide by the park’s mask rules. According to an Orange County sheriff’s report, this incident is the first known crime report involving such a confrontation at Disney World.
The guest, Enrico Toro, is accused of hitting the security guard in the head and threatening his life, which led to his arrest on the charge of misdemeanor battery on August 14th. Disney spokeswoman Andrea Finger said in a statement, “We expect guests to treat our Cast Members with courtesy and respect, and while the vast majority of guests have adapted to our new measures, this unfortunate case required law enforcement.”
In the arrest report, Toro said the security guard swore at him and they had an argument, but denied anything else happened. The report indicated that three witnesses who observed the altercation said Toro became “irate,” used profanity, and hit the guard. According to Orange County spokeswoman Despina McLaughlan, officials aren’t aware of any other violent incidents stemming from people refusing to wear masks in the county.
According to the Orange County Mayor, face masks are likely to be required for the “foreseeable future” in Disney World.